CSU Rams running back Chris Nwoke dives short of a catch Saturday against Colorado in Denver.

FORT COLLINS – Running back Chris Nwoke (ankle) is not expected to practice today and is questionable for Saturday’s home opener against North Dakota State.

And, according to CSU coach Jim McElwain, if the junior does not practice by Wednesday, he will not play in the game.

“It’s that simple,” McElwain said. “As you know, I don’t believe in gamers. You’ve got to do it in practice, which shows you can do it in the game.”

Nwoke rushed for 47 yards on 11 carries in the Rams win over Colorado, but was knocked out of the game in the second half and could not play in the fourth quarter. If Nwoke is not able to start then Donnell Alexander will take his place. Alexander, a redshirt freshman, led the team with 66 yards rushing on eight carries against CU, including a 37-yard run.

Meanwhile, wide receiver Thomas Coffman (lower abdomen) began running last week, but remains doubtful for this week’s contest. McElwain said he expects to know more about Coffman’s availability depending on how much the sophomore is able to do by Wednesday’s practice.

“By Wednesday after practice I should know where he’s at,” McElwain said. “I still have a sense that he might be a week away, just from a conditioning standpoint.”

Cornerback Bernard Blake (hamstring) is expected to play on Saturday. He’s been dealing with hamstring issues throughout the last few weeks.

“With him that’s been a constant,” McElwain said. “So it’s something he’s learned to play with. We anticipate that he’ll be ready to go.”